Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Red Wine a Day Produces Differing Heart Protection for Different People
One red wine daily may offer heart protection but death risk climbs after one
Jan. 31, 2012 – One of the most often discussed topics among wine drinkers is the widely held belief that a glass of red
wine a day helps protect against heart disease. It is also one of the most researched of the health questions pertaining to alcohol
consumption. Now, Canadian researchers think they have new insight to the answer.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Milk Drinkers Up to Age 98 Scored Better on Memory, Brain Function Tests
Regardless of age those who drank at least one glass of milk daily had advantage in mental performance tests
Jan. 30, 2012 Researchers have found that adults up to the age of 98 with higher intakes of milk and milk products scored
significantly higher on memory and other brain function tests than those who drank little to no milk, according to a news release from the
Milk Processor Education Program funded by the nation's milk processors.
Read more...
Aging Brains May Stay Sharp, Avoid Shrinkage, Alzheimer's with Proper Diet
Good choices Bs, C, D, E & omega 3; also diets high in trans fats more likely to produce brain shrinkage, lower scores on
thinking, memory
|
"...exciting to think that people could potentially stop their brains from shrinking and keep them
sharp by adjusting their diet,” Gene Bowman |
Jan. 4, 2012 – A new study suggests that people can potentially stop their brains from shrinking, avoid Alzheimer’s
disease and stay mentally sharp just by adjusting their diet. Read
more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Eating Baked, Broiled Fish Wards Off Cognitive Decline, Alzheimer’s Disease
Senior citizens nearing danger zone of cognitive problems should eat fish weekly
Dec. 6, 2011 - You can reduce your risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by eating fish
that is baked or broiled every week, according to a study presented last week at the Radiological Society of North America’s annual meeting.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Coffee Antioxidant Properties May Protect Women Against Uterine Cancer
Drinking more than four cups of coffee daily cut risk by 25%; coffee fast-emerging as protective against a number of
diseases- see video
Nov. 28, 2011 - Long-term coffee consumption may be associated with a reduced risk for uterine (endometrial) cancer,
according to an extensive study of almost 65,000 women. The lead researcher sees coffee, the favorite drink of senior citizens, emerging as a
protective agent in cancers that are linked to obesity, estrogen and insulin.
Read more, see video...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Low Vitamin C Levels Appear to Increase Risk for Heart Failure Patients
Heart failure patients who don’t eat enough vitamin C-rich foods have more inflammation and a higher risk of cardiac
complications and death
Nov.13, 2011 - A study presented yesterday at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2011, claims a new
study is the first to demonstrate that low vitamin C intake is associated with worse outcomes for heart failure patients.
Read more...
Aging News & Information
Senior Citizens Lose Ability to Distinguish Between Odors: Can Be Dangerous
Smells blending together pose hazards from poor nutrition, dangerous chemicals, researchers find
Nov. 10, 2011 – Most senior citizens are aware that their sense of smell is not as good as it once was. A new study finds
older people – beginning at about age 60 – have difficulty in distinguishing specific smells. It is not a laughing matter, however. The
researchers say it puts senior citizens a greater risk from dangerous chemicals and poor nutrition.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Low Levels of Alcohol Consumption Linked With Small Increased Risk of Breast Cancer
Study also confirms drinking two drinks a day jumps risk 51% - See video
Nov. 1, 2011
- Consumption of 3 to 6 alcoholic drinks per week is associated with a small increase in the risk of breast cancer, and consumption in both
earlier and later adult life is also associated with an increased risk, according to a study in the November 2 issue of the Journal of the
American Medical Association (JAMA). It also confirmed, however, that women
drinking two drinks a day had a 51 percent increased risk of breast cancer. Read
more, see video...
Coffee, Favorite Drink of Seniors, Provides Protection from Basal Cell Carcinoma
Women get almost twice as much protection as men among 3-cup a day drinkers - see video
 A senior, Karen Teaser, shares her story on You Tube of how she was diagnosed and treated
at Mayo Clinic in Arizona for a basal cell carcinoma. Also, she offers tips on how to protect yourself against skin cancer. |
Oct. 26, 2011 – Anytime caffeine is found to have a positive effect on health, it is good news for senior citizens –
coffee is by far the favorite drink of older Americans. The latest good news comes from a large study finding that drinking coffee provides
protection from basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Read more, see video
Light Alcohol Drinking Decreases Cancer Risk; More Frequency Jumps Cancer Death Rate
Large study of cancer victims investigates alcohol consumption and cancer mortality - see Q&A by CDC on alcohol
consumption below story
Oct. 20, 2011 - Light to moderate alcohol consumption does not appear to increase the risk of cancer, says a new study
from the National Institutes of Health. In fact, light drinking was shown to result in a significant decrease in cancer risk. But, as the
quantity of alcohol consumed increased from 1 drink to 3 or more on drinking days, risk of cancer mortality increased by 22% among all
participants. Read more...
My Aching Knees Seemed to Be Cured by Omega-3, New Study Says It May Be True
UK researchers find omega-3 fatty acids slow down osteoarthritis, at least in guinea pigs; I think it worked for me!
By Tucker Sutherland, editor, SeniorJournal.com
Oct. 17, 2011 – As an active
– well very active – tennis player for many years, when I turned 70 I was worried my playing days might end due to my aching knees. I never
took the court without wearing the latest in knee protection devices. Then, shortly after I increased my daily regimen of fish oil pills, the
knee pain disappeared. I was convinced my joints were now better “oiled.” New research says there may be something to this.
Read more...
Massive Study Finds Vitamin E Increases Death Risk of Prostate Cancer in Older Men
50% of 60 years or older take supplements with vitamin E, 23% are taking at least 400 IU despite a recommended daily
allowance of just 22.4 IU - see video
|
Watch video
|
Oct. 12, 2011 - In a trial that included about 35,000 men, those who were randomized to receive daily supplementation
with vitamin E had a significantly increased risk of prostate cancer, according to a study in the October 12 issue of the Journal of the
American Medical Association (JAMA). Read more, watch video...
New Warning of Deadly Danger of Dietary Supplements for Senior Women
‘We cannot recommend the use of vitamin and mineral supplements as a preventive measure…’ - danger from iron increases with
age
Oct. 10, 2011 – Taking dietary supplements, often on the encouragement of physicians, has been a growing trend in
American, in particular among senior citizens. A new study warns, however, that at least for older women, the risk of death increases with the
consumption of multivitamins, folic acid, iron and copper, among others.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Three-Quarters of Cancer Patients Lack Enough Vitamin D; Lowest Levels, Worst Cancers
‘There are various levels of evidence to support that vitamin D has a role in either the prevention or the prediction of
outcome of cancer’
Oct. 3, 2011 - More than three-quarters of cancer patients have insufficient levels of vitamin D (25-hydroxy-vitamin D)
and the lowest levels are associated with more advanced cancer, according to a study presented on yesterday at the 53rd Annual Meeting of the
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO). Read more...
Older Women See Depressions Go Down as Coffee Drinking
Goes Up
Depression is
chronic and recurring condition affecting twice as many women as men; includes about 1 of every 5 U.S. women
Sept. 26, 2011 –
In a survey of senior citizens several years ago, most of those participating said they would rather give up sex than drinking coffee. A new
study indicates it may be more than the flavor enticing seniors to caffeinated coffee. The risk of depression appears to decrease for older
women with their increase in coffee consumption. Read more...
Dieting Beats Exercise for Diabetes Prevention in Older Women, Combo Is Best
Strengthening exercise appears to have greater benefits for insulin resistance than aerobic exercise
By Carl Sherman, Health Behavior News Service
Sept. 2, 2011 - Lifestyle changes that include dieting to lose weight and exercise can help prevent type 2 diabetes, but
researchers were uncertain which element contributes more. A new study suggests that, in postmenopausal women at least, dietary weight loss
alone is effective while exercise alone is not effective, and both together are best of all.
Read more, see video
Breast Cancer Risk, Tumor Size in Mice Cut in Half by Eating Walnuts Regularly
Study indicates increased consumption of walnut could… ‘reduce risk for cancer in future generations’ - see video
Sept. 1, 2011 - The risk of breast cancer dropped significantly in mice when their regular diet included a modest amount
of walnut, Marshall University researchers report in the journal Nutrition and Cancer. And, when cancer did develop, the tumors were
half the size. Read more, see video...
Beyond Pills: Cardiologists Examine Alternatives to Reduce High Blood Pressure
Growing number require a large number of drugs to control blood pressure and look for something to help
August
30, 2011 - An increasing number of people battling hypertension – many of them senior citizens - show up at their doctor’s office with a bag
full of “natural” products” that they hope will lower their high blood pressure. In an effort to help these patients and their doctors, two
physicians have published a wide review of products most often used in efforts to reduce blood pressure.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Diet of Cholesterol-Lowering Foods Beats Low-Saturated Fat Diet in Lowering LDL
Supports the ideas of dietary strategies to lowering cholesterol; value of using recognized cholesterol-lowering foods
Aug. 23, 2011 - People with high cholesterol who received counseling regarding a diet that combined cholesterol-lowering
foods such as soy protein, nuts and plant sterols (natural plant alcohol) over 6 months experienced a greater reduction in their unhealthy
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) than individuals who received advice on a low-saturated fat diet, according to a new study.
Read more...
Processed and Unprocessed Red Meats Increase Risk of Type 2 Diabetes; Nuts Lower Risk
One hot dog or sausage or two slices of bacon – processed red meat - associated with a 51% increased diabetes risk
Aug. 18, 2011 – A new study of over 400,000 participants by Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers finds a
strong association between the consumption of red meat - particularly when the meat is processed - and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes,
which strikes over 1 out of 4 senior citizens. The study also shows that replacing red meat with healthier proteins, such as low-fat dairy,
nuts, or whole grains, can significantly lower the risk. Read more...
Fish Oil Supplements Appear to Help Older People Think Better, Save Brains
There was clear association between fish oil supplements and brain volume
Aug. 17, 2011 – The evidence from a recent study of older people indicates that consuming fish oil supplements has a
positive impact on brain health and aging. The researchers report better cognitive functioning as well as a difference in brain structure
between people taking fish oil supplements and non-users. Read more...
Vitamin D Acts as Protective Agent Against the Advance of Colon Cancer
Study by VHIO researchers confirms lack of vitamin D increases the aggressiveness of colon cancer
Aug. 16, 2011 – Vitamin D, the current star of the vitamin supplement world and frequent hero of clinical studies for
fighting cancers, is back in the news today with research results indicating it plays a role in slowing the growth of colon cancer cells.
Read more...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Vitamin D Appears Linked With Risk of Skin Cancer, Although Relationship Complex
Study looked at vitamin D level in senior citizens with non-melanoma skin cancers
Aug. 15, 2011 – Skin cancer, like most other cancers, plague older people. Most seniors are well aware of the dangers of
the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation for increasing the risk. A new study, however, finds that a high level of vitamin D also may increase the
risk of the non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). Read more...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Healthy Living by Women Dramatically Cuts Risk of
Sudden Cardiac Death
SCD kills within an hour and accounts for more than
half of all cardiac deaths; watch video below
July 7, 2011 - Adhering to a healthy lifestyle,
including not smoking, exercising regularly, having a low body weight
and eating a healthy diet, appears to dramatically lower the risk of
sudden cardiac death in women. Women abiding by all four lifestyles
lowered their risk by 92 percent, compared to women following none of
the four. Read
more, watch video...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
MyPlate Replaces Government’s MyPyramid as Icon for
Healthy Eating
Not much being mentioned on new web site as
specifically important to senior citizens; First Lady Michelle Obama
joins kickoff
June 2, 2011 – The Department of Agriculture kicked
the long-used MyPyramid off the stage today and introduced in its place
as the government’s food icon MyPlate. It is a new generation icon with
the intent to prompt Americans to think about a healthy plate at meal
times, according to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, who introduced MyPlate
with the help of First Lady Michelle Obama.
Read more...
Media Reports May Have Distorted Risk of Niacin in
Halt of Clinical Trial
Government agencies advise seniors to not stop
taking niacin until they have talked to their doctor
By Tucker Sutherland, editor, SeniorJournal.com
June 1, 2011 – Many senior citizens are concerned
and confused by news reports about the decision of the National Heart,
Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to halt a clinical trial involving
niacin (vitamin B3). An impression left by many media reports was that
this vitamin may be dangerous, because one of the reasons the trial was
halted was “a small and unexplained increase in ischemic stroke rates”
among those taking the niacin. What too many reports failed to emphasize
was the “significant” risk of a cardiovascular event to those in the
test group and that this was a very high dose of niacin, in addition to a
statin drug.
Read
more...
Coffee Drinking Fights Off Prostate and Breast
Cancer: Happy Older Americans Month
Senior citizens say they will give up sex before coffee;
must be delighted with latest news on how it protects both sexes from most
prominent cancers
May 19, 2011 - The results of two recent studies
may make this the best Older American’s Month in history for senior
citizens men and women. A new study indicates drinking coffee regularly
lowers the risk of prostate cancer. This follows a report earlier this
month saying women coffee drinkers have less breast cancer. The news
cannot get much better than that for seniors, who long ago declared
coffee their favorite drink.
Read more...
Most Americans are Health Conscious but Senior Citizens Make Healthiest Choices
Healthy eating habits differ the most between the
old and the young
April 27, 2011 - When purchasing food and
beverages, most U.S. adults are aware of basic nutritional facts of
these products and how to manage their weight. As Americans age,
however, they develop stronger purchasing preferences and habits with
regard to healthier choices. Senior citizens (66+ years old), called
“Matures” in this study, are the most likely of all generations to pay
close attention to nutritional facts and translate their health
consciousness into behavior, possibly because they are more likely to
need to follow a diet with specific restrictions, such as with low salt
and sugar.
Read more...
Most Americans Fail in Knowing Effects of Wine and
Sea Salt on High Blood Pressure
Senior citizens most knowledgeable about wine
consumption but least likely to drink it
April 25, 2011 – Senior citizens did well in a new
survey by the American Heart Association when it came to testing their
knowledge about the recommended limits for wine consumption, but about
the same as others when questioned about sea salt. Both substances are
receiving increased attention as High Blood Pressure Awareness Month is
about to kickoff on May 1.
Read more...
High Level of Omega-3 in Blood of Older Men Hikes
Risk of Aggressive Prostate Cancer
Study leader says beneficial effects of eating fish
to prevent heart disease still outweigh any harm related to prostate
cancer risk
April 25, 2011 – It appears
too much of a good thing can equal trouble. A new nationwide study finds
that older men with the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acid – that
highly recommended supplement gulped my millions of senior citizens
seeking better health – are much more likely to develop aggressive,
high-grade prostate cancer.
Read more...
Vitamins & Supplements: What You Need to Know Before You Dive In
What Are Dietary Supplements and How Are They Regulated?
By
Health Behavior News Service
April
5, 2011 -
Vitamins, herbs and other dietary supplements are sold as natural
alternatives to pharmaceuticals and many people turn to them in an
attempt to improve their health. Others seek supplements to lose weight
or after hearing that they can help with serious medical conditions.
These products are now used at least monthly by more than half of all
Americans—and their production, marketing and sales have become a $23.7
billion industry, according to the Nutrition Business Journal.
Read
more...
Women Reduce Risk
of Age-Related Macular Degeneration With Fish, Omega-3 Fatty Acid
Women who ate the
most fish did the best at reducing the risk of this leading cause of
blindness in senior citizens
March
15, 2011 – The regular consumption of fish and omega-3 fatty acids found
in fish is associated with a significantly reduced risk for women of
developing age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision
loss in senior citizens. The fish eaters – consuming mostly tuna –
lowered their risk the most (42%).
Read
more...
Heavy Liquor
Drinking May Increase Risk of Death from Pancreatic Cancer
Significant risk associated with 3 drinks daily for men, 4 for women;
risk not noted for wine or beer
March 14, 2011 –
Alcohol consumption – at least in moderation – has been enjoying a run
of studies finding benefits for the consumers, senior citizens in
particular. There is bad news today, however, with a finding that
drinking three or more glasses of liquor a day increases the risk of
death from pancreatic cancer.
Read
more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Alcohol Consumption
by Elderly Reduces Risk of Dementia, Alzheimer’s
Most studies of
senior citizens in last 31 years show association between moderate
alcohol consumption and better cognitive function and reduced risk of
dementia
March
7, 2011 - The evidence is
growing more convincing – even for senior citizens aged 75 and older -
that alcohol consumption reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
disease. A study released today found elderly drinkers had approximately
30% less overall dementia and 40% less Alzheimer dementia than did
non-drinking subjects. The report is online in Age and Ageing,
published by Oxford University Press for the British Geriatrics
Society.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
New Dietary Guidelines Have Advice for Older Americans on Theme of
Preventing Obesity
USDA
and HHS issued latest advice to help Americans make healthier food choices,
exercise
Jan. 31, 2011 – The
2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans were released today by the
Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. Although there is
not a special section of the report focusing on senior citizens, it does
contain some pin point advice for older Americans, particularly in line with
the emphasis of the guidelines on better control of obesity.
Read more...
Heart Association
Urges All Americans Limit Sodium Intake to 1500 mg, Not Just Seniors
Too much salt a
major health risk – 90% of U.S. population will develop hypertension
Jan. 14, 2011 -
The American Heart Association yesterday issued a call to action for the
public, health professionals, the food industry and the government to
intensify efforts to reduce the amount of sodium (salt) Americans
consume daily to 1500 milligrams. This was already the level recommended
by most health groups for senior citizens – those most endanger of high
blood pressure.
Read more...
Senior Citizen Longevity & Statistics
Contrary to What
Many Seniors Think, Growth Hormone May Not Be Good Way to Slow Aging
New research
says ‘un-growth hormone’ increases longevity; could lead to new way to
fight aging
Dec. 24, 2010 –
A new study indicates that senior citizens who take growth hormone in
hopes of extending their lives may be doing more harm that good. A
compound which acts in the opposite way as growth hormone can reverse
some of the signs of aging, the researchers say.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Vitamin D Helps
Build Bone But Evidence Lacking That It Lowers Risk of Other Disease
IOM sets new dietary
intake levels for calcium and vitamin D: Aging senior citizens,
especially women, need more than others
Nov.
30, 2010 – In an effort to clarify the hype for increased consumption of
vitamin D that has developed in recent years, the Institute of Medicine
has issued a new report concluding
the evidence supports a role for these nutrients in bone health but not
in preventing other diseases. The committee found that the majority of
Americans and Canadians are receiving adequate amounts of both calcium
and vitamin D, and warns there is emerging evidence that too much may be
harmful.
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Regular Consumption
of High Cholesterol Diet May Lead to Alzheimer’s Disease
New study used
rats to show brain damage produced from 5% cholesterol-enriched diet
Nov. 24, 2010 –
A new study indicates that regularly consumption of a high fat
cholesterol diet may lead to Alzheimer’s disease. The research using
adult rats is from the Laboratory of Psychiatry and Experimental
Alzheimers Research at the Medical University Innsbruck and was funded
by the Austrian Science Funds and published in Molecular Cellular
Neuroscience.
Read more...
High Levels of
Antioxidant Alpha-Carotene from Fruits, Vegetables Found to Extend Life
Higher
alpha-carotene concentration lowers risk of dying from cardiovascular
disease or cancer and all other causes
Nov.
22, 2010 - High blood levels of the antioxidant alpha-carotene – most
often acquired from eating fruits and vegetables - appear to be
associated with a reduced risk of dying over a 14-year period, according
to a report posted online today that will be published in the March 28
print issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives
journals.
Read more...
Eating Beets Is A
Safeguard Against Dementia Developing As Senior Citizens Age
Specialists in
healthy foods for senior citizens say beet juice increases blood flow to
brain
Nov.
8, 2010 - Seniors should add beets to the list of superfoods vital to
their diet, say researchers specializing in the study of foods that are
beneficial to people as they age. Their new study shows that a daily
dose of beet juice boosts blood flow to the brain, keeping your mind
sharp and potentially creating a safeguard against dementia as you age.
Read
more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Omega-3 Fish Oil
Does Not Slow Cognitive or Functional Decline in Alzheimer's Disease
New study indicates
DHA supplementation not useful for those with mild to moderate AD -
watch JAMA video
Nov. 3, 2010 –
There had been some indications that taking omega-3 fatty acid
supplements could reduce the rate of mental and functional decline in
patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. A new study,
however, dashes the hopes of many senior citizens with evidence that it
does not work.
Read more,
watch video...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Even Senior Citizens Can Reduce Cancer Risk with
Plant-Based Diet, Exercise Says New Study
‘It’s Never Too Late to Lower Your Risk’ is new
campaign by American Institute for Cancer Research (see video)
Oct. 21, 2010 -
Citing projections that by 2030, America’s senior population will reach
20 percent of the population – 78 million people – and new survey
information showing that Americans feel increasingly helpless about
their personal cancer risk as they grow older, the American Institute
for Cancer Research (AICR) today highlighted the emerging research
showing that even in later life, many cancers can be delayed or
prevented through regular physical activity and a plant-based diet.
Read more,
watch video...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
New Study Finds
Vitamin B12 May Reduce Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, Memory Loss
Most recent studies
have pointed to folate (B9) as best guard against Alzheimer's - see
report below news story that folate-B12 work together to improve memory
Oct. 19, 2010 –
A new study indicates the vitamin B12 may offer protection from
Alzheimer’s Disease, while the researchers found adding folate to the
diet did not appear to raise or lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
These results appear to counter studies in recent years that have
indicated an AD preventive power in folate, also known as B9, rather
than B12.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Vitamin D
Deficiency Rampant in Patients for Orthopedic Surgery, Damaging Recovery
People undergoing procedures
involving bone or muscle should correct their vitamin D if they want an
earlier faster, better, result
Oct. 6, 2010 -
Almost 50 percent of patients undergoing orthopedic surgery have vitamin
D deficiency that should be corrected before surgery to improve patient
outcomes, based on a study by researchers at Hospital for Special
Surgery (HSS) in New York City. Vitamin D is essential for bone healing
and muscle function and is critical for a patient's recovery.
Read more...
Fish Oil Used by Senior Citizens to Fight Heart
Disease Linked to Colon Cancer in Mice
High
doses of fish oil caused tumors in mice in just four weeks, say Michigan
State researcher, who wants to see guidelines on dosage
Oct. 5, 2010 -
Fish oil - long encouraged for seniors by doctors as a supplement to
support heart and joint health, among other benefits - induced severe
colitis and colon cancer in mice in research led by Michigan State
University and published this month in the journal Cancer Research.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Moderate Drinking – Especially Wine – Results in
Better Cognitive Function in Senior Citizens
Women
did best on testing if they consumed at least 4 or more in two weeks;
worst performers drank none
Aug. 18, 2010 – A very large study involving
thousands of senior citizens reports, as have so many other studies,
that moderate wine consumption results in better cognitive performance.
And, this research indicates the highest risk of poor cognitive
functioning tended to be among teetotalers.
Read
more...
Moderate Chocolate Consumption Linked to Lower Risks
of Heart Failure for Senior Women
Chocolate eating older women have less heart
failure but experts warn of excess calories, fat
Aug. 18, 2010 – Middle-aged and elderly Swedish
women who regularly ate a small amount of chocolate had lower risks of
heart failure risks, in a study reported in Circulation: Heart
Failure, a journal of the American Heart Association.
Read more...
USDA Pushes Ahead on Research of B Vitamins and
Their Impact on Aging Brains
Ongoing research takes a closer look at role these
nutrients may play in preventing decline in brain function of elderly;
depression in women
Aug. 17, 2010 - B vitamins–B-6, B-12 and folate–all
nourish the brain. Ongoing research indicates lower levels of these B
vitamins may enhance dementia, cognitive decline and even depression in
senior citizens.
Read more...
Senior Citizen Alerts
Consumer Reports Finds 'Dirty Dozen'
Supplements; Lack of Government Oversight
FDA says hidden drugs or steroids found in more
than 170 products marketed as supplements since 2008
Aug. 3, 2010 - A new investigation reported in the
September issue of Consumer Reports describes a striking lack of
government oversight for the bustling $26.7 billion dietary supplement
market and identifies a "dirty dozen" list of supplement ingredients
that have been linked by clinical research or case reports to serious
adverse events, such as cancer, coma, heart problems, kidney damage,
liver damage, or death.
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Your Risk of a Stroke Doubles for an Hour After
Drinking Any Alcoholic Drink
Moderate alcohol consumption (less than two drinks a
day) appears to be protective over the long-term - may outweigh this
temporary immediate risk
July 28, 2010 - Call it the not-so-happy hour. And,
many senior citizens who enjoy an evening drink will certainly call it
bad news. The risk of stroke appears to double in the hour after
consuming just one drink — be it wine, beer or hard liquor — according
to a small multi-center study reported in Stroke: Journal of the
American Heart Association.
Read more...
Older People Eating Vitamin E Rich Foods Less
Likely to Suffer Dementia, Alzheimer’s
New tests indicated high levels of the sun vitamin,
D, and now E, both help older people preserve their memory
July 13, 2010 - Consuming more vitamin E through the diet appears
to be associated with a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease,
according to a report in the July issue of Archives of Neurology,
one of the JAMA/Archives journals. A report in SeniorJournal.com
yesterday shows new testing has also found that higher levels of vitamin
D also seem to protect against these memory-robbing diseases.
Read more...
Low Vitamin D in Senior Citizens Signals Cognitive
Decline; Higher Parkinson’s Risk
An estimated 40 to 100% of seniors in U.S. and Europe
are deficient in vitamin D: linked to fractures, various chronic
diseases and death
July 12, 2010 - Senior citizens with low levels of
vitamin D are likely to experience declines in thinking, learning and
memory over a six-year period, according to a study in the July 12 issue
of Archives of Internal Medicine. Low levels of the vitamin may
also increase the risk for Parkinson's disease, according to a finding
that people with
higher levels of vitamin D appear to have a reduced risk of developing
Parkinson's disease.
Read
more...
Aging Women Lower Their Risk of Cataracts with
Healthy Diet: More Vitamins, Minerals
Adherence to U.S. dietary guidelines more strongly
related to the lower occurrence of nuclear cataracts than any other
modifiable risk factor
June
14, 2010 – Cataracts, thefishvisual impairment that becomes more common as
people age, could be less prevalent among women if aging women ate more
foods rich in vitamins and minerals, says a new study reported in the
June issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives
journals. By age 80, half of all Americans – male and female – have
experienced a cataract.
Read
more...
More Evidence
that Coffee Protects from Diabetes;
Caffeine Probably the Cause
Encouraging
news for seniors who are major targets of diabetes and love coffee
June 8, 2010 - Several studies have indicated
that drinking coffee tends to offer protection from type 2 diabetes. A
new study shows that caffeine is probably the ingredient largely
responsible for this protection. It is great news for senior citizens,
the major targets of diabetes, who rate coffee as their favorite drink.
Read more...
'Fountain of Youth' Steroids Could Protect Against
Heart Disease, Suggests Study
Steroids made naturally in the body, but levels
decline rapidly with age creating market in synthetic
steroids, such as pregnenolone and DHEA
May 17, 20101 - A natural defense mechanism against heart disease
could be switched on by steroids sold as health supplements. University
of Leeds biologists have identified a previously-unknown ion channel in
human blood vessels that can limit the production of inflammatory
cytokines – proteins that drive the early stages of heart disease.
Read more...
New Study Says Caffeine Slows Alzheimer's, Other
Dementias, Restores Cognitive Function
Positive impact of caffeine on cognition and memory
performance, other benefits of caffeine in special supplement to the
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease
(Amsterdam) May 17, 2010 - Although
caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive drug worldwide and a
particular favorite for senior citizens who thrive on coffee, its
potential beneficial effect for maintenance of proper brain functioning
has only recently begun to be adequately appreciated. The latest
research says caffeine may be protective against the cognitive decline
seen in dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD).
Read more...
When Nut Consumption Goes Up, Cholesterol Level Goes
Down, Heart Health Improves
Blood cholesterol levels improve after eating nuts:
bad cholesterol drops 7.4%, ratio improves 8.3%, 5.1% drop in total
cholesterol
May 10, 2010 – A new study reported today in the
Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals,
further confirms previous research findings that eating nuts improves
blood cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of coronary heart
disease. A large Penn State study in 2001 (reported below) reached the same
conclusion, as have many other studies in recent years.
Read more...
Green, Red, Black Grapes Reduce Risk for Senior
Problems of Heart Disease, Diabetes
Grapes lowered blood
pressure, improved heart function and reduced risk factors for metabolic syndrome;
second study shows how to increase phytonutrients by food choice
April 26, 2010 – Could eating grapes slow what's
for many aging Americans a downhill sequence of high blood pressure and
insulin resistance leading to heart disease and type 2 diabetes?
Scientists at the University of Michigan Health System are finding the
answer is “yes” and it’s due to the effects of phytochemicals. This is
one of two new studies praising phytochemicals in grapes and other
friuits.
Read more, Watch video...
Senior Citizens with Highest Levels of Vitamin D
Show Most Vitality as They Age
New study does say participants with better
physical function may have higher vitamin D simply because they go
outside more often
April 26, 2010 – We are living longer than ever,
but increasingly senior citizens are learning that the quantity of years
is not as important as the quality. A myriad of consequences result from
aging and among the most common are painful bone and joint diseases that
make simple movement a challenge. New research was released yesterday
showing seniors with higher levels of vitamin D demonstrate more youth
and vitality as they enjoy longer life spans.
Read more...
Claims Appear Fishy that Fish Oil Supplements
Improve Cognitive Ability of Senior Citizens
Largest study ever of older people and fish oil finds
no improvement in brain power after two years
April
21, 2010 – Senior citizens have been among the millions that flocked to
the lure of maintaining a health body and mind through consumption of
fish oil supplements. A new study focused on older people has found,
however, there is no evidence they can improve the cognitive ability of
older people.
Read more...
Sugar May Be Culprit in Senior Citizens Losing
Battle Against Cholesterol, Triglyceride
JAMA report: increased sugars associated with
‘important cardiovascular disease risk factors,’ lower HDL-C, higher
triglyceride, higher triglycerides to HDL-C
|
 “It’s hard for me to resist any kind
of sugar,” JAMA Video |
April 20, 2010 – Millions of senior citizens battle
cholesterol and high triglycerides and sugar may play a key role in this
battle. Consuming a higher amount of added sugars in processed or
prepared foods is associated with lower levels of high-density
lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, the "good cholesterol") and higher
levels of triglycerides, which are important risk factors for
cardiovascular disease.
Read
more, Watch video
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Vitamin K May Protect Against Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
Strikes Mostly Senior Citizens
Findings add to data supporting a diet that
includes plenty of green leafy vegetables in order to prevent many
cancers as well as other diseases
April 20, 2010 - Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of
the immune system and most common hematologic malignancy in the U.S., is
primarily is diagnosed in senior citizens. New research from the Mayo
Clinic in Minnesota has found that people with higher intakes of vitamin
K from their diet have a lower risk of developing this cancer.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
NIH Panel Examines Lactose Intolerance; Concerned
Too Many Skipping Diary Products
Generally thought that this problem increases as we
age due to bodies producing fewer lactase enzymes
Feb. 25, 2010 – It sometimes seem there are at
least a million bad things that happen to people as they pass from
middle age to becoming senior citizens and one of those is becoming
lactose intolerant. That’s when consuming dairy products changes from an
enjoyable and healthy experience to one of stomach gas and cramping.
But, a panel of experts gathered by the National Institutes of Health
says eliminating these nutrient-rich foods may not only be unnecessary -
it could negatively impact diet and health.
Read more...
Remember Magnesium If You Want to Remember at Any
Age
Study finds new synthetic supplement improves memory
and staves off age-related memory loss
Feb.
22, 2010 - Those who live in industrialized countries have easy access
to healthy food and nutritional supplements, but magnesium deficiencies
are still common. That's a problem because new research from Tel Aviv
University suggests that magnesium, a key nutrient for the functioning
of memory, may be even more critical than previously thought for the
neurons of children and healthy brain cells in aging adults.
Read more...
Possible Relief for Senior Citizens from Glaucoma, Eye Diseases with
Green Tea
Study
indicates green tea consumption could benefit the eye against oxidative
stress
Feb. 19, 2010 - Scientists have confirmed that the
healthful substances found in green tea — renowned for their powerful
antioxidant and disease-fighting properties — do penetrate into tissues of
the eye. It is encouraging news for the millions of senior citizens battling
glaucoma and other eye diseases.
Read
more...
Senior Citizens with High Levels of Vitamin D at
Less Risk of Heart Disease, Diabetes
Review of 28 studies finds the vitamin associated
with a substantial decrease in cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes
and metabolic syndrome for seniors and middle aged
Feb. 16, 2010 - Middle aged and elderly people with
high levels of vitamin D could reduce their chances of developing heart
disease or diabetes by 43%, according to researchers at the University
of Warwick. Read
more...
Just a Couple of Sodas a Week May Double the Risk of
Pancreatic Cancer
No association was seen between fruit juice
consumption and pancreatic cancer
Feb. 8, 2010 - Consuming two or more soft drinks
per week increased the risk of developing pancreatic cancer by nearly
twofold compared to individuals who did not consume soft drinks,
according to a report in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, a
journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.
Read
more...
Fractures that Plague Senior Citizens Can be Reduced
by Taking Calcium with Vitamin D
Large study supports growing consensus that combined
calcium and vitamin D is more effective than vitamin D alone in reducing
fractures
Jan. 14, 2010 – The risk of bone fractures, a major
cause of disability, loss of independence and death for senior citizens,
can be reduced for people of any age and any sex by taking calcium with
vitamin D supplements on a daily basis, according to a study of nearly
70,000 patients.
Read more...
Vitamin C Cures Fast Aging Mice from Cancer,
Diabetes, Heart Failure, High Cholesterol
Clearly indicates that healthy individuals do not
require a large amount of vitamin C in order to increase their lifespan,
scientist says
Jan.
4, 2009 – Vitamin C has been found to cure mice from abnormalities
caused by Werner syndrome (accelerated aging) gene, including cancer,
obesity, diabetes, heart failure and high cholesterol in new research
published in the FASEB Journal.
Read
more...
Ginkgo Biloba Fails to Slow Cognitive Decline in
Study of Senior Citizens
Study previously found it was not effective in
reducing the incidence of Alzheimer dementia or dementia - see video
Jan. 2, 2010 – The idea that a simple herbal
supplement – Ginkgo biloba - could slow the rate of cognitive decline
has long attracted the attention of senior citizens. The final blow to
that possibility seems to have been struck by a study reported in the
December 23/30 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association
(JAMA).
Read more...see Video
| |
 A brain sample taken from mice shows dark spots consistent with amyloid
plaque, indicative of the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
|
|
Diet High in Methionine Appears to Increase Risk of
Alzheimer’s Says Temple Researchers
Lab rats on high methionine diet had up to 40% more
amyloid plaque in brains
Dec. 16, 2009 - A diet rich in methionine, an amino
acid typically found in red meats, fish, beans, eggs, garlic, lentils,
onions, yogurt and seeds, can possibly increase the risk of developing
Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study by Temple researchers.
Read more...
Regular Coffee, Decaf and Tea All Associated With
Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Info more than doubled since coffee first linked to
reducing diabetes risk; unlikely just related to caffeine
Dec. 14, 2009 – Just days after the news that
coffee appears to substantially lower the risk of prostate cancer,
senior citizens today learned their favorite drink – coffee - appears to
lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a major threat for older
Americans.
Read
more...
Soy Food Helps Women with Breast Cancer Decrease
Death Risk, Avoid Recurrence
| |
Agricultural
Research Service says soybeans
are in an eye-opening array of foods.
Starting with soy milk, tofu, soybean curd, soy yogurt,
soyburgers, soy loaf, and soy sausage. Soy oil is the most
widely used edible oil in the United States. Soy components such
as protein and oil are ingredients in dozens of everyday
foods-from granola bars to potato chips. You'll be hard put to
find a chocolate treat that lacks soy lecithin. More below news
report... |
|
Study including senior citizens suggests moderate soy food intake is safe and
potentially beneficial for women with breast cancer
Dec. 9, 2009 - Although there is a concern
regarding the safety of soy food consumption among breast cancer
survivors, researchers have found that women in China who had breast
cancer and a higher intake of soy food had an associated lower risk of
death and breast cancer recurrence, according to a study in the December
9 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
Read
more...
Favorite Drink of Senior Citizens Coffee Appears to
Fight Advanced Prostate Cancer
More good news for senior men is FDA consideration
of prostate cancer vaccine, Provenge
Dec. 8, 2009 - Data presented at the American
Association for Cancer Research Frontiers in Cancer Prevention Research
Conference revealed a strong association between coffee consumption and
a lowered risk of lethal and advanced prostate cancers. This follows
last month’s action by the Food and Drug Administration to consider the
merits of Provenge as a vaccine for prostate cancer.
Read more...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Tsunami of Fat May Soon Wash Away U.S. Health Gains
from Smoking Decline
Researchers find that the U.S. population won't
live longer because even though they've quit smoking, more are
overweight
Dec. 3, 2009 – The health benefits gained in the
U.S. by the decline in smoking is about to be submerged in a tsunami of
fat. If current obesity trends continue the hard won gains in better
health by less smoking will be lost, according to a study by University
of Michigan and Harvard researchers published today in the New England
Journal of Medicine.
Read more...
Older Problem Drinkers Down More Alcohol, More Often
than Younger Counterparts
But adults over age 60 were less likely than other
groups to be in the abuse or dependence categories
Nov. 20, 2009 - Older adults who have alcohol
dependence problems drink significantly more than do younger adults who
have similar problems, a new study has found. Those over age 60 gulp
down more alcohol per drinking session and have more binge episodes that
younger Americans.
Read more...
NHLBI Publishes Heart Healthy Cookbook, Keep the Beat Recipes:
Deliciously Healthy Dinners
Recipes
based on heart healthy principles from the NHLBI, reflect the Dietary
Guidelines for Americans, and include a nutrition analysis
Nov. 18, 2009 - The health of your heart – a priority
for all senior citizens - has a lot to do with the foods you eat. To help
busy people and families shop for, prepare, and serve healthy meals, the
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes
of Health created and published Keep the Beat Recipes: Deliciously
Healthy Dinners. The new cookbook features 75 “simple and delicious
recipes” influenced by Asian, Latino, Mediterranean, and American cuisine
that are “good for your heart and taste great too.”
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Scientists Discover Possible Achilles Heel of
Influenza: Our Old Friends Antioxidants
Opens the door for new drugs that could
prevent severe flu-related lung damage... and another reason to drink red
wine
Oct. 29, 2009 - As the nation copes with a shortage of vaccines for
H1N1 influenza, a team of Alabama researchers have raised hopes that
they have found an Achilles' heel for all strains of the flu -
antioxidants. Their research indicates that antioxidants—the same
substances found in plant-based foods—might hold the key in preventing
the flu virus from wreaking havoc on our lungs.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Vegetable Symposium Hears that Vegetable Juices are
Good Way to Achieve Dietary Goal
Something as easy as drinking vegetable juice can
help people increase their vegetable intake and have significant health
benefits
Oct. 21, 2009 – For many elderly, in particular
those who live alone, preparing healthy meals can become a burden. Two
studies presented this week at the International Symposium on Human
Health Effects of Fruits and Vegetables in Avignon, France, suggest an
easy, enjoyable way to add more vegetables to their diet.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
CDC issues first state-by-state report. Healthy
People 2010 aims for at least 75% of Americans to eat two or more
servings of fruit, least 50% three or more servings of vegetables daily
Sept. 29, 2009 – A new report from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention says no state in the U.S. in 2009 is
meeting national objectives for consumption of fruits and vegetables. It
is probably not the fault of America’s senior citizens, however, since a
2007 CDC report found them to be in the age group most likely to eat
fruits and veggies three or more times per day.
Read more...
Researcher - Age 94 - Starts Petition for FDA to Ban Trans Fat from American
Diet
‘Everybody should read my petition because it will scare
the hell out of them’ - Kummerow
Sept.
3, 2009 - Fred Kummerow, a 94-year-old University of Illinois veterinary
biosciences professor emeritus who still conducts research on the health
effects of trans fats in the diet, filed a petition with the Food and Drug
Administration last month that begins with, "I request to ban trans fats
from the American diet."
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Claim of Increased Melanoma Risk from Antioxidants
Not Supported by New Study
Study examined antioxidants and melanoma
association among 69,671 women and men and found none
Aug. 17, 2009 – Researchers, alarmed by a recent
trial of antioxidants used for cancer prevention that indicated an
increase in the risk of melanoma in women, examined this association
among almost 70,000 women and say they found no link higher risk of
melanoma.
Read more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Rigid Mediterranean-Type Diet, More Physical
Activity Reduces Risk of Alzheimer's
Second JAMA study says high adherence to the diet by
senior citizens leads to slower decline in some cognitive function, but
not decreased risk for dementia
Aug.
11, 2009 - Elderly individuals who had a diet that included higher
consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereal and fish and was low
in red meat and poultry and who were physically active had an associated
lower risk of Alzheimer disease, according to a study in the August 12
issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). In a
second study, higher adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated
with slower cognitive decline, but was not associated with a decreased
risk of dementia. Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Senior Citizens Have Less Dementia if They Eat
Omega-3 Rich Fish,
Finds 7-Nation Study
Results inconclusive on impact of dementia risk
from eating meat
July 17, 2009 – A large study of almost 15,000
senior citizens in seven countries has determined that eating more fish,
which contain omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, results in
older people having less dementia. Experts estimate that over 24 million people
worldwide suffer from dementia, and many of these people live in low-
and middle-income countries, like those included in this study.
Read more...
Naringenin Found in Grapefruit Prevents Obesity,
Blocks Insulin Resistance in Mice
Concentrations of the citrus-derived flavonoid in
study are at higher levels than available from dietary
components
July 14, 2009 - A flavonoid derived from citrus
fruit has shown tremendous promise for senior citizens in new research
with mice by preventing weight gain and other
signs of metabolic syndrome which can lead to Type 2 Diabetes and
increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Read
more...
Heavy Alcohol Drinking Spurs High-Grade Prostate
Cancer, Stops Prevention by Finasteride
Four or more drinks on 5 or more days per week
doubles risk of high-grade prostate cancer
July
13, 2009 – Heavy alcohol consumption is known to increase the risk in a
number of health-related conditions and a new study says you can add
high-grade prostate cancer to that list. And, the risk of developing any
prostate cancer may also increase, since this study says it stops the
preventive actions of the drug finasteride (Proscar).
Read more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Senior Citizens See Almost 40% Drop in Dementia Risk
with Moderate Alcohol Drinking
Study of seniors age 75 and older confirms benefits
of alcohol in preventing dementia that had been proven for middle aged
adults
July 13, 2009 – Previous research has shown that
moderate drinking of alcoholic beverages, especially wine, can reduce
the risk of dementia in middle aged adults. A new study presented today
finds the same is true for senior citizens. The moderate drinkers in
this study – all age 75 or older – saw their risk drop by 37 percent
over six years.
Read
more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Caffeine Miraculously Restores Memory in Old Mice with Alzheimer’s
Disease Symptoms
Caffeine treatment removed the beta amyloid plaques
from the brains of the Alzheimer's mice. Photo: Florida Alzheimer's
Disease Research Center |
Coffee, the favorite drink of senior citizens, sure
to get more popular with discovery of the memory recovery power of five cups
a day that reduces beta-amyloid protein in blood
July 6, 2009 – Old mice, bred to develop symptoms of
Alzheimer’s disease, totally regained their memory loss when given a dose of
caffeine that was equivalent to five cups of coffee a day. Back-to-back
studies published online today in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease,
show caffeine significantly decreased abnormal levels of the protein linked
to Alzheimer's disease.
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Carotene that Makes Carrot Orange is in New
Supplement that Slows Age-Related Macular Degeneration
New supplement introduced today appears so slow
down AMD, the leading cause of blindness in elderly
June 19, 2009 – Eating carrots actually is good for
your sight, at least that’s what is indicated by new research being
presented today. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – the leading
cause of blindness in senior citizens - can be slowed by taking an
antioxidant supplement containing carotenes, according to the results of
a program at Queen’s University Belfast.
Read more...
Proper Nutrition for Senior Citizens: Why we eat
what we eat and what you should be eating
Ten tips on what seniors should consider when making
food choices; sample meals by an expert
By
Jim Schneeberger, Food and Beverage Director, Park Springs,
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)
May 27, 2009 - It has become increasingly clear
over the years that unbalanced food intakes increase the risks of a
number of chronic diseases that face senior citizens. Making the
necessary food choices is not always easy, but necessary. Recently, the
focus for dietary change has been on the maintenance of body weight and
nutritional adequacy, with emphasis on increased intake of complex
carbohydrates and fiber and decreased intake of sugars, total fat,
cholesterol, sodium and alcohol.
Read
more...
Omega 3 from Fish, Nuts, Olive Oil Associated With
Reduced Risk of Age-Related Blindness
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the
leading cause of severe vision loss among those older than 65 in the
developed world.
| |
 |
|
| |
Center vision
lost to AMD |
|
May 11, 2009 – Those fish oils called omega 3 fatty
acids – already associated with a number of health benefits for senior
citizens - have now been found to play a role in lowering the risk of
the number one cause of blindness in senior citizens – age-related
macular degeneration. In this study, most of the omega 3 came from fish,
nuts and olive oil. And, it also helps to avoid trans fats.
Read
more...
Older Women Reduce Risk of Heart Failure by Eating
Blood Pressure-Lowering DASH Diet
May work because it effectively reduces blood
pressure and bad cholesterol
May 11, 2009 – The DASH diet, long promoted as
having preventive and treatment qualities to confront high blood
pressure, may also lower the risk of heart failure for women.
Hypertension is by far the number one reason older women seek medical
help and many have probably been encouraged by their doctors to use this
diet plan.
Read more...
More Sunlight May Provide Senior Citizens with Lower
Risk of Heart Disease, Diabetes
Prevalence of dangerous metabolic syndrome found
among those with low vitamin D levels
May 11, 2009 – Older people can reduce their risk
of developing heart disease and diabetes by spending more time in the
sunshine, say British researchers. Sunlight stimulated vitamin D in the
skin and, they say, older people are likely to have a vitamin D
deficiency, due to the natural aging process and lifestyle changes.
Read
more...
Study of Older Men Challenges Heart Association
Recommendation of Eating Fish Twice Weekly
Study finds eating fatty fish once a week reduces
heart failure risk, eating more does not. Omega-3 fatty acid benefits
confirmed, too – if taken in the right amounts
April 22, 2009 – A study involving almost 40,000
older men has found that eating salmon or other fatty fish just once a
week lowers a man’s risk of heart failure by 12 percent, although the
American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week. But, to
really maximize the benefits of consuming omega-3 fatty acids a man
needs 36 grams per day, which lowers his heart failure risk by 33
percent. Mysteriously, the men who consumed fish more often, including
twice a week, and those who consumed more omega-3 had no reduction in
heart failure rates.
Read more...
Omega-3 Kills Cancer Cells, Enhances Chemotherapy
Drug As It Limits Harmful Side Effects
Success with lab rats leads researchers to call for wider use of
omega-3 in the fight against cancer
April 2, 2009 – Researchers who found that
docosahexanoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oils,
reduced the size of tumors in lab animals and enhanced the positive
effects of the chemotherapy drug cisplatin, while limiting its harmful
side effects, are calling for wider use of omega-3 in the fight against
cancer.
Read more...
Lipoic Acid Found to Reduce Triglycerides by 60
Percent in Lab Rats
Follows study finding this cardiovascular risk is
common among U.S. adults
April 1, 2009 – Following only days after a study
in the Archives of Internal Medicine finds high concentrations of
triglyceride blood fats are common in the U.S., a new study finds that
supplementing the diets of lab rats with lipoic acid significantly
lowered their triglycerides. Researchers suggest it may be an easy way
to lower this risk of cardiovascular disease.
Read
more...
Exercise & Fitness for Senior Citizens
Good News for Seniors: Coffee Kills Pain When You
Exercise, May Help Performance, Too
But does that reduction in pain translate into an
improvement in sport performance?
April 1, 2009 – Near here is news that will appeal
to many senior citizens who love their coffee. Java will reduce pain
when you exercise and improve your performance. That’s what Robert Motl, cyclist
and professor, says he has found.
Read more...
Americans Consume Too Much Salt and Senior Citizens May Not Know Their
Suggested Limit
| |
 Graphic
from excellent Mayo Clinic report, "Sodium: Are you getting too
much?" Link in news story. |
|
Lower sodium recommendation applies to all seniors and
almost 70 percent of American adults
March 30, 2009 – Although many senior citizens may not
know it, they belong to one of the special groups that should not consume
more than 1,500 milligrams per day of sodium. A new study by the Centers for
Disease Control and Preventions shows that most are consuming more than
double the recommended level of salt.
Read more...
Older People Reduce Death Risk by 25 Percent with
Daily Moderate Alcohol Consumption
Large study of people over age 55 says any way
you
look at it, moderate alcohol is beneficial
March 30, 2009 - Older adults – in this case,
people 55 or older - who drink one to two glasses of alcohol per day are
25 percent less at risk of death from any cause than people who drink
more than that and those who do not drink at all, according to a study
by researchers at the San Francisco VA Medical Center and the University
of California, San Francisco.
Read more...
Eating Red, Processed Meat Associated With Increased
Risk of Death from All Causes
Eating more white meat decreases the death risk
from all causes in study of older people
March 23, 2009 – A gigantic government study of
older Americans has found that eating more red meat increases the risk
of death from not only cancer and heart disease, but from all causes.
This study also adds processed meat to the list of bad meats but says
eating more white meat decreases the death risk from all causes.
Read more...
Vitamin C May Save Older Men the Extreme Pain
Associated with Gout
This inflammatory arthritis usually attacks
middle-aged men but about equal for sexes after age 60
March 9, 2009 - Men with higher vitamin C intake
appear less likely to develop gout, an extremely painful type of
arthritis, which normally strikes men between ages 40 and 60, according
to a report in the March 9 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one
of the JAMA/Archives journals. After age 60, however, the goat strikes
evenly between men and women. By age 80, this arthritis hits mostly
women. Yet, this study did not include women.
Read
more...
No Matter if Wine is Red or White, it Can Increase
Breast Cancer Risk for Women
Large study shows breast cancer risk increase the
same from wine, beer or liquor
March 9, 2009 – Women who drank 14 or more
alcoholic drinks per week increased their chances of getting breast
cancer by 24 percent over non-drinkers in a large study of women up to
age 69. And, it made no difference if the drink was red wine, white
wine, beer or liquor.
Read
more...
Older People More Impaired by Social Drinking, More
Likely to Think They are OK
It's not clear why but it seems to be a difference in
alcohol metabolism: alcohol may affect the brain of older adults
differently.
March 5, 2009 - Older adults may be more affected
by a couple of glasses of wine than their younger counterparts are - yet
they are less likely to be aware of it, a new study suggests. The
findings suggest that older adults should be particularly careful about
driving after social drinking.
Read more...
Counting Calories, Exercise and Counseling Add Up to
Best Diet in Battle Against Obesity
For senior citizens exercise may be key to offset
reduced daily activity; this diet works regardless of carbohydrate,
protein or fat content
Feb.
26, 2009 - Many popular diets emphasize either carbohydrate, protein or
fat as the best way to lose weight. But, a comparison of overweight
participants assigned to four different diets over a two-year period
showed that reducing calories achieved weight loss regardless of which
of the three nutrients was emphasized. What may be more important to
senior citizens, than younger people, is the importance of moderate exercise
in this program, since too most seniors reduce daily activity as the age.
Read more...
Million Women Study Finds Even Moderate Alcohol
Consumption Increases Cancer Risk
Risk increases with increase in alcohol consumption
and smoking, regardless of alcohol source, i.e., wine, spirits, etc.
Feb. 25, 2009 – Just as millions of women were
becoming comfortable thinking their glass of evening red wine was not
only good for their relaxation but good for their health, comes smashing
news from a gigantic study that finds it may cause cancer. Nearly 13
percent of cancers of the breast, liver, rectum or upper aero-digestive
tract in women up to age 75 may result from low to moderate alcohol
consumption.
Read more...
Significant Vision Loss from Age-Related Macular
Degeneration Reduced 41% by Vitamin B, Folic Acid
First means of reducing risk of AMD, leading
cause of blindness in senior citizens, other than not smoking
Feb.
24, 2009 – The risk of developing the leading cause of blindness in
older people – age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – was reduced by
34 percent in women taking a combination of vitamins B6 and B12 and
folic acid. The risk of visually significant AMD was 41 percent lower.
There were no men in the study.
Read more...
Calcium Lowers Cancer Risk in Older People: More So for Women Than Men
Long
respected by senior citizens as a nutrient for building strength in aging
bones, calcium now adds ‘cancer fighter’ to its resume
Feb. 24, 2009 – Senior citizens are well aware of the
role calcium plays in keeping aging bones strong but the nutrient has now
been identified as a cancer fighter. For women, high levels of calcium, have
been found to lower the risk of any type cancer, while in men it appears to
lower risks for colorectal cancer and other cancers of the digestive system.
Read
more...
Older Women Lower Stroke Risk by Drinking Coffee
Frequently and Not Smoking
It only works for healthy women but two cups a day
does the trick; unfortunately, many heavy coffee drinkers tend to smoke
Feb. 17, 2009 – Good news for millions of senior
women - long-term coffee consumption is associated with lower stroke
risk in older women who don’t smoke, according to a 24-year follow-up
study reported in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart
Association.
Read
more...
Multivitamins Fail to Protect Older Women from
Cancer, Heart Disease or Death
Some benefit from stress supplements with folic
acid and other B vitamins for lower heart attack risk
Feb. 11, 2009 – Older women looking for ways to
save money in this recession may want to drop multivitamins from their
shopping list. A gigantic study finds postmenopausal women who take
multivitamins appear to have the same risk of most common cancers,
cardiovascular disease or dying of any cause as women who do not take
multivitamin supplements.
Read more...
Alzheimer's, Dementia & Mental Health
Mediterranean Diet Lowers Risk of Cognitive
Impairment, Stops Slide to Alzheimer’s
Previous studies have also shown a lower risk for
Alzheimer's disease among those who eat a Mediterranean diet
Feb. 9, 2009 - Eating a Mediterranean diet, long
associated with better health, appears to also lower the risk of mild
cognitive impairment - a stage between normal aging and dementia - or of
transitioning from mild cognitive impairment into Alzheimer's disease,
according to a report in the February issue of Archives of Neurology,
one of the JAMA/Archives journals.
Read
more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Senior Citizens May Find Valentine's Day Indulgences Good for Their
Heart
Research shows things associated with the holiday
from fruit and wine to massage can lower stress and reduce heart risk
Feb. 9, 2009 – Most senior citizens have probably
not considered it, but the delights of Valentine’s Day – romance, wine,
fruit and chocolate - can be down right good for your heart, according
to research from the University of Michigan.
Read more, watch video..
Potassium May Be a Senior Citizen’s Best Friend in
Fighting Hypertension-Causing Salt
Seniors trying to lower blood pressure should boost
their intake of potassium, which has the opposite effect to sodium
Jan. 29, 2009 – Many senior citizens struggle in a
battle against high blood pressure and a key goal is to avoid as much
salt as possible, which is challenging because of its wide use in many
foods. There is new hope, however, in research that finds adding more
potassium to the diet can offset the harmful effects of sodium to reduce
the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Read
more...
Seniors Will Appreciate Study Finding Coffee
Drinkers Less Likely to Get Alzheimer’s in Old Age
Drinking 3-5 cups per day shows best results – lowers
Alzheimer’s risk by 65%
Jan. 28, 2009 – A survey several years ago found
that most senior citizens would give up sex before they would their
morning coffee. So, seniors, always pleased to hear good news about
their favorite drink, will appreciate a new research report indicating
people who consumed coffee at middle-age had lower risk for dementia and
Alzheimer’s disease later in life, compared to those who drank little or
no java.
Read more...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizens
Link Between Blood Pressure and Outside Temperature
for Seniors May Tie to Vitamin D
Researchers also urging close monitoring of elderly
with hypertension during weather extremes; second study says thinking
ability varies with blood pressure
Jan. 16, 2009 – The recent discovery that the blood
pressure readings for senior citizens vary in reverse to the outside
temperature – colder temperature equals higher blood pressure reading –
may have something to do with the link between vitamin D and
hypertension, according to a spokesman for European cardiologists. The
French researchers also urge careful monitoring during extreme
temperatures.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Vitamin D is ‘It’ Nutrient with Success Against
Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Disease, Osteoporosis
Many of the 23 million Americans with diabetes have
low vitamin D levels
Jan. 12, 2009 - Vitamin D may prevent or delay the
onset of diabetes and reduce complications for those who have already
been diagnosed. Welcome news for many senior citizens, who are also
eyeing Vitamin D because of other recent reports showing it offers
health benefits for diseases, including cancer, osteoporosis, heart
disease.
Read
more...
Evidence Mounts that Vitamin E Does Not Stop
Prostate Cancer, Nor Does Selenium, Vitamin C
JAMA publishes 2 studies released early in public
interest on supplements’ ineffectiveness in preventing cancer
Jan.
7, 2009 - In perhaps the largest cancer chemoprevention trial ever
conducted, researchers have found that supplementation with vitamin E or
selenium, alone or in combination, was not associated with a lower risk
of prostate cancer or other cancers. And, in a second study in today’s
Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), long-term
supplementation with vitamin E or C did not reduce the risk of prostate
or other cancers. Both reports were released early online in December due to public
health implications.
Read
more...
Grape Seed Extract Causes Leukemia Cells to Commit Suicide in Laboratory
Test
Possible implications for prevention or treatment of
hematological malignancies, other cancers
Dec.
31, 2008 - An extract from grape seeds forces laboratory leukemia cells to
commit cell suicide, according to researchers from the University of
Kentucky. They found that within 24 hours, 76 percent of leukemia cells had
died after being exposed to the extract.
Read
more...
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Info for
Seniors Added to NIHSeniorHealth.com
Website is joint effort of the National Institute on
Aging and National Library of Medicine
Dec. 15, 2008 – The use of complementary and
alternative medicine declines as Americans move up into the ranks of
senior citizens – probably due to lack of coverage by Medicare for most
of these – but still a substantial number of seniors use CAM. To help
seniors make better therapy choices, the topic has been added to
NIHSeniorHealth.com.
Read more...
Lack of Medicare Coverage May Account for Decline in
Alternative Medicine Use by Seniors
New survey finds 38 percent of adults use
complimentary and alternative medicine: pain primary reason
Dec. 12, 2008 – A new survey finds complimentary
and alternative medicine in the US is primarily used to fight pain, yet,
usage tends to decline as adults become senior citizens, who are the
most likely to suffer with pain. The decline is probably because
Medicare does not cover “alternative therapies,” other than chiropractic
care.
Read more...
Vitamins C, E and Selenium Fail to Prevent Prostate
Cancer in Massive Studies
Do not work against other cancers either say
studies released early by JAMA
Dec.
9, 2008 – Two major cancer prevention studies have found that two of the
most popular vitamins – E, and C - nor the supplement selenium do not
lower the risk for prostate cancer, or other cancers. Both studies will
be published January 7 in the Journal of the American Medical
Association (JAMA)
but are bring released early because of the important public health
implications.
Read more...
Scientists Find New Way to Detect, Treat Vitamin D
Deficiency that Threatens Heart
Lack of vitamin D spells heart trouble as well as
a lot of other ailments
Dec. 2, 2008 – There is little doubt left that a
deficiency of vitamin D is a warning sign for cardiovascular disease –
as well as many other ailments from bone weakness to Parkinson’s
disease. A new review of available research has produced practical
recommendations for detecting and treating this potentially critical
problem.
Read more...
Ginkgo Biloba Does Not Appear To Prevent Dementia,
Alzheimer's Disease in Elderly
The rate of total dementia did not differ between
seniors assigned to Ginkgo biloba vs. placebo
Nov. 18, 2008 - The herb Ginkgo biloba has been
aggressively marketed to senior citizens around the world as a way to
improve memory and even prevent dementia. A new study, however, says the
herb is not effective in reducing the rate of dementia or Alzheimer’s
disease among senior citizens age 75 or older.
Read
more...
Vitamin E Nor C Supplements Offer Cancer Protection
for Older Men; Nor Heart Protection
Eating a diet rich in vitamins E and C was found
to lower risk of cancer in earlier studies
Nov. 17, 2008 – It has not been a good month for
vitamins E and C. A study released yesterday found no protective effect
from vitamin E on prostate cancer or vitamin C supplementation on total
cancer. This follows a study released earlier in the month that says
neither vitamin E nor vitamin C
supplements reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in a study
of older men.
Read more...
Vitamins E and C Fail to Beat Placebo in Preventing
Cardiovascular Disease in Older Men
Earlier studies have suggested E helps fight
cardiovascular disease, C reduces risk of heart disease
Nov. 10, 2008 - Neither vitamin E nor vitamin C
supplements reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events in a large,
long-term study of older male physicians, according to a study in the
November 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The article was released early online
yesterday to coincide with the scientific presentation of the study
findings at the American Heart Association meeting.
Read more...
Grapes May Be Ultimate Weapon to Fight High Blood
Pressure, Salty Diet and Protect Heart
| |
 'Something within the grapes themselves has a direct impact on
cardiovascular risk' |
|
Research shows grape intake reduces hypertension,
signs of heart muscle damage, and improves heart function in lab rats
Oct. 29, 2008 - Could eating grapes help fight high
blood pressure related to a salty diet? And could grapes calm other
factors that are also related to heart diseases such as heart failure?
...Read
more...
Health & Medicine for Senior Citizen
Selenium or Vitamin E to Stop Prostate Cancer May Do
More Harm Than Good
National Cancer Institute stops clinical trial from
going forward
Oct. 27, 2008 – Selenium and vitamin E supplements,
taken either alone or together, did not prevent prostate cancer in a
study funded by the National Cancer Institute. The data did show,
however, two concerning trends: a small but not statistically
significant increase in the number of prostate cancer cases among the
over 35,000 men age 50 and older in the trial taking only vitamin E, and
a small, but not statistically significant increase in the number of
cases of adult onset diabetes in men taking only selenium.
Read more...
Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements for Seniors
Annual Report on Dietary Supplement Studies in 2007
Has a Few Nuggets for Senior Citizens
Selected top papers refer to seniors and folic acid,
genistein, beta-carotene, vitamins E, B, C,
Oct.
23, 2008 - There were just a few valuable nuggets for senior citizens in
the ninth issue of the Annual Bibliography of Significant Advances in
Dietary Supplement Research, which was published today by the Office of
Dietary Supplements (ODS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Read more...
Eating Fruits and Vegetables Can Help Cancer
Patients Respond Better to Chemotherapy
Naturally occurring apigenin facilitates the death of cancer cells
in UC Riverside study
Oct.
22, 2008 – The leading cause of death in all cancer patients continues
to be the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy, a treatment in
which chemicals are used to kill cells. A new study has found that
ingesting apigenin – a naturally occurring dietary agent found in
vegetables and fruit – improves cancer cells' response to chemotherapy.
Read
more...
Drinking Alcohol May Protect Hearts in Older People
but It Shrinks Their Brains
The more alcohol consumed, the smaller the total
brain volume; stronger in women
Oct.
13, 2008 – Senior citizens who have reveled for years in the thought
that their daily dose of alcohol was good for their health got a real
shock today. It may be good for your heart, and even your health, but it
shrinks your brain, researchers say in a new study. The more alcohol
consumed, the smaller the total brain volume.
Read more...
Dementia Won’t Improve for Older People by Taking
Procaine but Health Might Suffer
A topical anesthetic, normally, procaine has been
touted as anti-aging drug that might prevent or even reverse dementia
Oct.
9, 2008 - Procaine, a medication that is normally used as a topical
anesthetic , has been touted as an anti-aging drug that might prevent or
even reverse dementia. A new Cochrane Review, however, suggests that the
risks of bad side effects outweigh any benefit. Procaine
is also known as novocaine.
Read more...
Vitamin C May Help Old Men Maintain Stronger Bones,
Fight Osteoporosis
Did not see significant effects of vitamin C intake
on bone in old women
By Rosalie Marion
Bliss, ARS
Oct.
8, 2008 - Findings from a new study suggest vitamin C may be protective
against bone loss in older men. Researchers funded by the Agricultural
Research Service (ARS) reported the findings in the October issue of the
Journal of Nutrition.
Read
more...
Red Wine Lowers Lung Cancer Risk in Older Men,
Especially Smokers
Two percent lower lung cancer risk with each glass of
red wine consumed per month
Oct.
7, 2008 – Moderate drinking of red wine may lower the risk of lung
cancer in older men, particularly if they are smokers, according to a
report in the October issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers &
Prevention¸ a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.
Read
more...
Remember the Bump? It's Back for Older Women as Way
to Prevent Falls, Hip Fractures
Website
to fight falls and fractured hips, Survey finds women not well informed
– offers calcium calculator
Sept. 13, 2008 - Fall is just around the corner,
and hopefully it is the change of season kind, rather than the fall
caused by change in your ability to balance. But, more than 352,000
people – mostly female senior citizens – will suffer a broken hip this
year and 90 percent of these will be due to a fall. But there may be
help found in that old dance called the “bump” – the dance in
which people bump hips to the beat of the music.
Read
more...
Calcium Calculator Now Online to Help Senior
Citizens Fight Osteoporosis, Bone Breaks
People who are physically active and get enough
calcium can strengthen their bones - even in old age
Sept.
12, 2008 - A stumble, a fall - a broken bone: many older people are
afraid of this happening, according to the German Institute for Quality
and Efficiency in Health Care, which today made available online a
calcium calculator. Research shows that regular adequate intake of
calcium and exercise can strengthen the bones and prevent falls.
Read more...
Vitamin B Deficiency Linked to Cognitive Impairment;
Senior Citizens Often Low on B6
Nutrition research center on aging at Tufts U.
releases second recent study on vitamin B
Sept. 2, 2008 – Just a few months ago, researchers
identified senior citizens as a group that tended to have levels of
vitamin B6 that are consistently too low. The same research center
released a new study today showing that a deficiency of B-vitamins may
cause cognitive impairment. Mice with a deficiency of three B-vitamins -
folate, B12 and B6 - developed cognitive dysfunction in the study.
Read more...
Shotgun Approach with Black Raspberry Agents Does
Best Job of Slowing Cancer
Black raspberries have vitamins, minerals, phenols
and phytosterols, many of which prevent cancer in animals
Aug. 27, 2008 – A shotgun approach may be more
effective than a rifle’s pin point accuracy, when it comes to stopping
cancer growth. New research has found that a mix of preventative agents,
such as those found in concentrated black raspberries, more effectively
inhibit cancer development than single agents aimed at shutting down one
particular gene.
Read
more...
Life-saving drugs may become ineffective, if patient
consumes grapefruit or even other common fruit juices, including orange
and apple
Aug. 19, 2008 – Drugs often prescribed for senior
citizens fighting life threatening conditions, such as heart disease,
cancer, organ-transplant rejection and infection, may become ineffective
if the patient consumes grapefruit or even other common fruit juices,
including orange and apple.
Read more...
